From Fireworks to Drone Shows: UAE Prepares Grand Welcome for New Year 2026
As the clock ticks down to the end of 2025, the United Arab Emirates is preparing to usher in the New Year with large-scale celebrations across all seven emirates. From spectacular fireworks and high-tech drone shows to a nationwide public holiday and extensive safety arrangements, the country is set to welcome 2026 with events designed to entertain residents and visitors while ensuring security and smooth mobility.
As the world prepares to say goodbye to 2025, the United Arab Emirates is gearing up for a grand and carefully planned celebration to welcome New Year 2026. From spectacular fireworks and cutting-edge drone shows to public holidays and large-scale safety arrangements, the country is set to host one of the most vibrant New Year’s Eve celebrations in the region.
Across all seven emirates, authorities have announced a wide range of festivities designed to bring residents and visitors together, while ensuring safety, smooth traffic flow, and a festive atmosphere that reflects the UAE’s reputation for hosting world-class events.
To allow people to fully participate in the celebrations, January 1, 2026, has been declared a public holiday for both public and private sector employees across the UAE. The announcement provides families, workers, and tourists with an opportunity to celebrate the New Year without work-related obligations.
In addition, flexible working arrangements may be applied in certain government entities following the holiday, creating a longer festive break for many residents. The decision is also expected to boost tourism, hospitality, and retail activity during the holiday period.
Fireworks will remain the centrepiece of New Year’s Eve celebrations across the country. In Dubai, iconic landmarks such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Festival City, The Beach at JBR, Al Seef, and Dubai Frame will host large-scale fireworks and light shows, drawing thousands of spectators.
Authorities have confirmed that fireworks will take place at dozens of locations nationwide, ensuring that residents across different neighbourhoods and emirates can enjoy the celebrations without needing to travel long distances. The shows will feature synchronised pyrotechnics, laser displays, and music, creating a city-wide spectacle.
Adding a unique global touch to the celebrations, Dubai Global Village will host multiple countdowns representing different countries and time zones. Instead of waiting for a single midnight moment, visitors will be able to experience a series of countdown celebrations throughout the evening.
These countdowns are designed to reflect the cultural diversity of the UAE, allowing residents from different nationalities to celebrate the New Year according to their home country’s timing. The venue will remain open until the early hours of the morning, offering live performances, entertainment, food, and fireworks throughout the night.
In the capital, Abu Dhabi is preparing a particularly ambitious New Year’s Eve event. A massive fireworks display is planned at Al Wathba, with organisers aiming for a show lasting over an hour. The event is expected to include a combination of fireworks and drone choreography, potentially setting new records for scale and duration.
The celebration will highlight Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation for hosting large international events and embracing innovative entertainment technologies.
Alongside traditional fireworks, drone light shows will play a major role in welcoming 2026. Thousands of drones will take to the skies at selected locations, forming intricate patterns, symbols, and messages to mark the New Year.
These drone displays are part of the UAE’s broader move toward modern, technology-driven celebrations, offering visually stunning performances while complementing fireworks and laser shows.
Given the scale of the celebrations, authorities have put extensive security and safety measures in place. Police, civil defence teams, medical services, and event organisers are coordinating closely to manage crowds, respond to emergencies, and maintain public order.
Traffic management plans include road diversions, temporary closures near major event sites, and extended public transport services to ensure smooth movement across the cities. Residents are encouraged to plan their travel in advance and follow official guidance to avoid congestion.
In some areas, New Year celebrations will extend beyond a single night. Cultural events, light installations, live performances, and family-friendly activities are scheduled to continue into early January, transforming the New Year into a multi-day festival rather than a one-night event.
This extended celebration reflects the UAE’s emphasis on tourism, entertainment, and community engagement during major holidays.
With fireworks across iconic landmarks, innovative drone shows, public holidays, and detailed safety planning, the UAE is preparing to welcome 2026 in spectacular fashion. The celebrations are expected to attract residents and visitors from around the world, reinforcing the country’s image as a global destination for major events.
As midnight approaches on December 31, the UAE’s skyline will once again light up, marking the start of a new year filled with hope, celebration, and unity.
